Exploring Canada's eastern coast

Exploring Canada's eastern coast

Halifax is a city in Atlantic Canada that is worth exploring.Photo by
Handout photo

Travel east and discover the street that never sleeps or relax under the stars in your own private rooftop Jacuzzi. Atlantic Canada isn't just a place for fiddlers, fiddleheads and fish, although it glories in all three. Its cities are also home to an eclectic array of artistic and cultural attractions.

SAINT JOHN, N.B.

Canada's 'original city' is 225 years old and celebrating. The first incorporated city in the country is hosting a summer of festivals: The Culture Fest multicultural festival at Rockwood Park, the largest municipal park in Canada, on July 3; a music festival --Reunion 2010, Aug. 5 to 8; a First Nations Festival on Sept. 25. Home to Canada's first charter bank, first public high school, first YWCA, first public playground and first Miss Canada, Saint John is rich in history and urban culture (www.saintjohn225.com).

CHARLOTTETOWN

The Cirque is coming to Prince Edward Island. Cirque du Soleil has designed a fantastical outdoor show exclusively for Charlottetown's SummerFest, June 30 to July 4 (www.walkandseacharlottetown.com/summerfest/).The event features a free street parade by the Cirque's street animators beginning at Province House, where the Fathers of Confederation once gathered.

HALIFAX

Be inspired by the work of some of Canada's great visual artists at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia (www.artgalleryofnovascotia.ca). Located in a heritage building in the heart of downtown Halifax, this summer the gallery features the work of video installation artist David Hoffos. It's also home to the Maud Lewis Gallery, a permanent installation honouring one of Canada's foremost folk artists. Step outside and explore the streets and harbour of historic Halifax, and enjoy some of the best-preserved 18th and 19th century streetscapes in Canada.

GETTING AWAY

Atlantic Canada is home to some of Canada's most iconic natural wonders. The Bay of Fundy, N.B./N. S.: Home to the highest tides in the world, the Bay of Fundy boasts one of world's most diverse marine environments. Hike, swim, take a kayak tour, whale watch and enjoy the region's flavourful food (www.bayoffundytourism.com).

Iceberg Alley, N.L.: The icebergs that float in an awe-inspiring display along the northern tip of Labrador down along the east coast of Newfoundland are breakaway pieces of Greenland's mammoth glaciers. Grabbed by the ocean currents, the bergs eventually melt in the warmer waters of the Gulf Stream. Stand on the shore and enjoy the world's best view of this frozen parade. Best time for sightings is between March and July (www.newfoundlandlabrador.com).

PEI National Park: Walk P.E.I.'s famous red sands, dig for clams or swim in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. The natural beauty of the island is on full display at the park, which is also home to Green Gables, world-renowned as the setting of Lucy Maud Montgomery's classic, Anne of Green Gables (www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/pe/pei-ipe/index.aspx).

ST. JOHN'S, NFLD.

If you're looking for a good time, go see George. The city's legendary George Street is the gateway to the sounds and tastes of the world. Check out Bianca's, a St. John's institution known for its award-winning Mediterranean-inspired dishes and extensive wine list; the Duke of Duckworth, a pub popular for its Newfoundland dishes; and Magnum and Steins, which offers contemporary dishes and tables with a great view of the city's streetscapes. Enjoy the George Street Festival July 29 to Aug. 3, then stay for the Royal St. John's Regatta, held every year since 1816, on Aug. 4 (stjohnsregatta.org).

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